Echinococcosis

Echinococcosis is a cestodosis of carnivores caused by the tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus. Adults of the parasite are localised in the small intestine of the main host - carnivorous dogs, foxes, jackals, wolves, etc.

The larval stage (vesicular) occurs in the parenchymatous organs of intermediate hosts - cattle, sheep, pigs, horses etc. Humans are also affected.

Developmental biology

Intermediate hosts become infected by ingestion of helminth eggs with grass. In the intermediate host, the internal parenchymatous organs (liver, kidneys, etc.) are affected, in which cysts (blisters) form. The primary hosts become infected by eating the internal organs of echinococcosis-affected animals. The echinococci then reach sexual maturity in the intestines of carnivores. The cycle repeats.
Symptoms are mild and depend on the intensity of infestation. Carnivores have gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhoea, constipation), animals lose weight, severe itching in the anus area.

Diagnosis: based on clinical examination and faecal analysis.

Treatment of echinococcosis

Treatment is carried out according to the recommendations of the veterinarian, prescribed antihelmintics active against cestodes. Recently, preparations containing praziquantel are increasingly favoured.

Prevention of echinococcosis

Preventive measures include quarterly deworming of the animal.